Support for disabled people - Community Support Package

Background

An $11.5 million Community Support Package for those affected by the recent North Island Floods and Cyclone Gabrielle, was announced by the Government on 13 February 2023.

 

As part of the overall Community Support Package, $0.5 million has been dedicated to support disabled people, tāngata whaikaha Māori or their households. We know disabled people are likely to have additional costs as a result of the floods and cyclone. This dedicated funding will help to support their immediate and unexpected needs.

The Community Support Package also includes funding which providers and other disability organisations can access through the Provider Support Fund.

Community Connectors are also available to assist anyone access the support they need, including disabled people.

Disabled people and their whānau can also contact the Disability Helpline on 0800 11 12 13 or text 8988 for advice and information.

Information for disabled people who have been affected by the North Island floods and Cyclone Gabrielle

How do I apply for the dedicated support for disabled people?

Select providers are helping disabled people and their whānau impacted by the recent flooding and cyclone.

They can work with you to assess your needs and ensure you get the support you need.

Depending on your needs, the provider may be able to assist in funding services, devices or equipment for you.

Currently, there are four disability providers delivering this support. This list may grow over time.

  • Hōhepa Hawkes Bay
    Areas covered: Hawkes Bay
    Phone Laura: 027 259 2385
    Website: www.hohepahawkesbay.com
    Or visit the Hōhepa Hawkes Bay Community Drop In Centre: 258 Gloucester Street, Taradale
  • Te Hauora o Turanganui-a-Kiwa (Turanga Health)
    Areas covered: Gisborne
    Phone: 06 869 0457
    Email: admin@turangahealth.co.nz
    Address: 145 Derby Street, Gisborne

If I apply for this dedicated funding, can I also apply for any other type of support?

In addition to the dedicated funding for disabled people, a range of other support and funding is available.

Community Connectors help people understand and connect to the many types of support options available through government agencies or other service providers. They can help connect you to these services.

To find a Community Connector in your region go to the Family Services Directory.

What can the dedicated funding be used for?

The dedicated funding for disabled people or their households as part of the Community Support Package recognises that disabled people may have additional costs that are different to non-disabled people.

The funding can be used to support disabled people or their households who:

  • have been directly impacted by the North Island floods or Cyclone Gabrielle
  • need essential items or support that are necessary for their well-being.

For example, a person with a physical impairment may need to pay for a cleaner or moving company; they may need repairs to damaged housing modifications or equipment; they may need funding to enable their disabled child(ren) to access additional out-of-home support during this time.

Please note, you must apply for the funding before you make your purchase. It is not possible to get refunded for items you have already bought.

What can’t the dedicated funding be used for?

This dedicated funding for disabled people or their households as part of the Community Support Package cannot be used for:

    • Services, devices, equipment or support already funded through other contracts
    • Alcohol, cigarettes, tobacco, or vaping products
    • Purchasing a vehicle
    • Food (should be covered by “Food Secure Communities Programme” and “Special Needs Grant” for food)
    • Items already purchased
    • Gambling purposes, e.g Lotto products
    • Purchasing cash assets (Cash assets - Map (workandincome.govt.nz))
    • Ongoing costs, such as subscriptions

How much dedicated funding can I receive?

The funding is capped at $1,000 for each disabled person or their whānau/household.

Who is eligible to access the dedicated funding?

For the purposes of this funding, the United Nation’s Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) serves as the definition of disability. This includes people who have long-term physical, mental, intellectual or sensory impairments which in interaction with various barriers may hinder their full and effective participation in society on an equal basis with others.

You do not have to be receiving funding disability support at the moment to be able to access this funding.

The service provider/agency will assess your needs and help determine if you are eligible for this funding.

 

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